Weak Rat

Question
QUESTION: I've had my pet rat, Benjamin, for a little less than a year now. He's extremely active and playful and outgoing, more than his older housemate, Alfie. Just yesterday, I've noticed that when I went to feed them, he did not come out of his house, which he usually does. Alfie was wide awake and playful as usual but Benjamin's eyes were barely opened, they were watery, and when I picked him up, he was so weak and limp. Today is no diffferent. He was sleeping outside his house, cuddled into a ball standing up. His eyes are a little crusty/watery and still VERY weak.

I am a college student and I don't know the costs of seeing a vet but I could assume that its more than I can afford right now. I would greatly appreciate any advice you can offer. I am extremely worried and sad. Please help.

ANSWER: Hi Victoria


I cant say it any easier, but I think you know what I am going to say.
Benjamin is very sick. He may be dehydrated. Sleeping in odd places they dont usually sleep, lethargy, watery eyes etc...are all a sign of infection, which of course means Vet visit. This is a case that, unfortunately, there is no getting around it.  He needs someone and fast.  Is there a way your parents could lend a hand just this once? If so, let me know and I can send you to a place that sees rats and is open on weekends for emergencies. I am afraid that he will pass away within the next 12 to 24 hours unless he gets help. I hate being so blunt but I cant tell you things will get better if you give him baby foods and childrens pedialyte (which i am going to suggest anyhow) and maybe by some miracle I am wrong and he DOES bounce back, but I usually do not see that happen that easy. I sure wish I did though.

So in the meantime, you need to get him to take liquids. Watermelon juice, koolaid, childrens pedialyte.  Use a dropper or even your finger.
Also, baby food, stage 1 since its alot of water. Sweet potatoes, carrots, peaches, pears....let him lick it from you too.  He may be too sick to even bother but its worth a shot.

Anyhow, if you think someone may be willing to help you out with the bill, let me know your location and I will find a vet for you. If you have decent credit, you can apply for CARE CREDIT on line and use that at the vets.  Even if your friends or family have good credit they can apply for it and let you borrow it.


Hang in there!

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Sandra,

Thank you for the fast reply. After I wrote the question to you, I've decided to look for pet hospitals in the area but all the ones I've called so far do not offer services for rats. My location is in north San Jose/Milpitas.

Can you please tell me where I can take Benjamin? and also, what price range are we looking at here? Pleeeeease. I greatly appreciate all of your help.

Answer
I only hope he is still here today.....I never got your reply till today so this is why I am just getting to you.  My response time is usually much faster.

Here are the names I have for you:


My first choice is Below, Dr. Gandolfi:

Dr. Rene Gandolfi
Castro Valley Companion Animal Hospital    
2509 Lessley Avenue
Castro Valley CA 94546
Phone:    510-582-6311
Website: www.cvcah.com




Dr. Megan Blasier
VCA Holly Street Animal Hospital    
501 Laurel St
San Carlos CA 94070
Phone:    650 631 7400



Dr. Lynne Lankes
Central Marin Cat and Exotic Hospital
4144-A Redwood Highway
San Rafael CA 94903
Phone:    415-479-2287
Website: www.catsandexotics.com